JACKSON COUNTY, MO.—Law enforcement are investigating a fatal dog attack in the Kansas City suburb of Independence.

Just after 2:30p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a home&nbsp; near E. Bundschu Road and N. Jones Road, according to a media release.

A dog was attacking the victim when officers arrived at the home. Because the dog was so aggressive and the victim's injuries were so severe, one officer shot the dog.

The dog then became aggressive toward the officers, and the officers shot the dog a second time and killed it.

Officers provided emergency treatment to the victim, later identified as 41-year-old&nbsp;Tyler Brennan, until an ambulance arrived and took him to the hospital.&nbsp; Medical staff pronounced Brennan deceased. There were no other injuries.

JACKSON COUNTY, MO.—Law enforcement are investigating a fatal dog attack in the Kansas City suburb of Independence.Just after 2:30p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a home&nbsp; near E. Bundschu Road and N. Jones Road, according to a media release.A dog was attacking the victim when officers arrived at the home. Because the dog was so aggressive and the victim's injuries were so severe, one officer shot the dog.The dog then became aggressive toward the officers, and the officers shot the dog a second time and killed it.Officers provided emergency treatment to the victim, later identified as 41-year-old&nbsp;Tyler Brennan, until an ambulance arrived and took him to the hospital.&nbsp; Medical staff pronounced Brennan deceased. There were no other injuries.

KC area man dies from injuries in dog attack

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771554285454.png" alt="President Trump during a rally in Georgia- White House image" />
 <figcaption>President Trump during a rally in Georgia- White House image</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨👽 <a href="https://t.co/YvlvECEuIK">pic.twitter.com/YvlvECEuIK</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2024653706273112379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Trump orders Pentagon to release files related to UFOs and aliens

By Dewey Terrill JC Post / Little Apple Post

Firefighters responded to a blaze at 1810 Caroline Ave. Building "O" in Junction City Thursday afternoon. There were no any injuries. Residents of 17 apartments were displaced.

The cause of the blaze is still undetermined. Fire Chief Jason Lankas reported that about one-quarter of the building was destroyed. A damage estimate has not yet been determined. Investigators from the State Fire Marshall's Office and Junction City Fire Department were brought in to work on the case.

Junction City and Geary County firefighters responded along with a ladder truck from Fort Riley. The military and Red Cross responded to the scene to help those who were displaced. Most of those people were members of the military and everyone has been taken care of.&nbsp; The fire call came in at 2:04 p.m.

This is the fourth building fire at the Bluffs since the complex opened many years ago.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771550654784.jpeg" alt="Photo - Junction City Fire Department&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo - Junction City Fire Department&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey Terrill JC Post / Little Apple PostFirefighters responded to a blaze at 1810 Caroline Ave. Building "O" in Junction City Thursday afternoon. There were no any injuries. Residents of 17 apartments were displaced.The cause of the blaze is still undetermined. Fire Chief Jason Lankas reported that about one-quarter of the building was destroyed. A damage estimate has not yet been determined. Investigators from the State Fire Marshall's Office and Junction City Fire Department were brought in to work on the case.Junction City and Geary County firefighters responded along with a ladder truck from Fort Riley. The military and Red Cross responded to the scene to help those who were displaced. Most of those people were members of the military and everyone has been taken care of.&nbsp; The fire call came in at 2:04 p.m.This is the fourth building fire at the Bluffs since the complex opened many years ago.

Residents of 17 apartments displaced after Kansas fire

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations anfter

Just before 8p.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp;responded to the 600 block of N 10th Street in Salina for subject refusing to leave property in the area, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman.

 Officers located a subject identified as 38-year-old, Raymond Lawrence of Salina. He was under the influence of an unknown substance and was acting erratically, according to Feldman.

 Officers learned that Lawrence attempted to confront a person, he did not know, in the area wanting to fight. No fight occurred and when Lawrence went towards the person he tripped and fell on his own hitting his head on the ground. 

As officers were speaking with Lawrence he spit on an officer and yelled he was going to kill the officer. Officers placed Lawrence under arrest. As Lawrence was being walked to a vehicle, he kicked an officer. 

Medics were called to check on Lawrence’s injuries and transport him to the hospital. In the ambulance, Lawrence again spit on an officer. While at the hospital, Lawrence attempted to kick hospital personnel and also threatened to kill hospital personnel. 

 Once Lawrence was cleared by the hospital he was transported to the Saline County Jail where he continued to be combative towards officers and jail personnel and threatened to kill jail personnel. 

Lawrence was booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges that include 3 counts of Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer, Criminal Threat, and Disorderly Conduct.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771509831590.png" alt="Lawrence photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Lawrence photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations anfterJust before 8p.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp;responded to the 600 block of N 10th Street in Salina for subject refusing to leave property in the area, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman. Officers located a subject identified as 38-year-old, Raymond Lawrence of Salina. He was under the influence of an unknown substance and was acting erratically, according to Feldman. Officers learned that Lawrence attempted to confront a person, he did not know, in the area wanting to fight. No fight occurred and when Lawrence went towards the person he tripped and fell on his own hitting his head on the ground. As officers were speaking with Lawrence he spit on an officer and yelled he was going to kill the officer. Officers placed Lawrence under arrest. As Lawrence was being walked to a vehicle, he kicked an officer. Medics were called to check on Lawrence’s injuries and transport him to the hospital. In the ambulance, Lawrence again spit on an officer. While at the hospital, Lawrence attempted to kick hospital personnel and also threatened to kill hospital personnel. Once Lawrence was cleared by the hospital he was transported to the Saline County Jail where he continued to be combative towards officers and jail personnel and threatened to kill jail personnel. Lawrence was booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges that include 3 counts of Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer, Criminal Threat, and Disorderly Conduct.

Police: Kansas man threatened to kill officers, hospital staff

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.– Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a traffic stop. 

Jusst before 9:30 p.m. February 17,, a Sheriff's Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze on U.S. Highway 75 near 134th Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

During the traffic stop, deputies discovered illegal contraband.  The driver, Jason Green, 49, of Warsaw, Missouri, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container, driving while license suspended, improper driving on laned roadway, and failure to provide vehicle insurance. 

The passenger Shannen Leeviy Price, 45, of Warsaw, Missouri, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container and criminal use of weapons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771448573068.png" alt="Green-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Green-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.– Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a traffic stop. Jusst before 9:30 p.m. February 17,, a Sheriff's Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze on U.S. Highway 75 near 134th Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771448533168.png" alt="Price-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Price-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>During the traffic stop, deputies discovered illegal contraband. The driver, Jason Green, 49, of Warsaw, Missouri, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container, driving while license suspended, improper driving on laned roadway, and failure to provide vehicle insurance. The passenger Shannen Leeviy Price, 45, of Warsaw, Missouri, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container and criminal use of weapons.

2 Missouri men caught transporting drugs in Kansas

BEAVER COUNTY —On Tuesday, troopers in Troop I of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol responded to an overturned Rosston fire truck during the Ranger Road wildfire between Rosston and Englewood, Kansas, according to a statement from the patrol.. 

Three firefighters were on board. Two were riding on the back of the truck as they navigated a smoke-filled pasture with extremely limited visibility.

The driver, unable to see through the dense smoke, drove into a burning canyon. The truck overturned, trapping the driver and ejecting the two firefighters who were riding on the rear.

After noticing a missing fire truck, fellow first responders searched for the fireman as every second counted. Once located, all three men were rescued from the burning canyon and transported by ambulance to a hospital. Each sustained serious injuries. The trapped driver suffered second-degree burns to his upper body.

"We are grateful for the fellow first responders who, like these brave Rosston firefighters, came from across the state to assist Oklahomans as this massive wildfire spread. They pushed flames back from homes, evacuated residents, and moved livestock for people they may never meet." the OHP wrote.

"Please keep these three firefighters in your thoughts as they recover, along with the men and women who continue responding to the ongoing wildfire threat."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771519113307.png" alt="-283,000 acres up in flames in 24 hours-image State Fire Marshal of Kansas" />
 <figcaption>-283,000 acres up in flames in 24 hours-image State Fire Marshal of Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>BEAVER COUNTY —On Tuesday, troopers in Troop I of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol responded to an overturned Rosston fire truck during the Ranger Road wildfire between Rosston and Englewood, Kansas, according to a statement from the patrol.. Three firefighters were on board. Two were riding on the back of the truck as they navigated a smoke-filled pasture with extremely limited visibility.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771533718848.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The driver, unable to see through the dense smoke, drove into a burning canyon. The truck overturned, trapping the driver and ejecting the two firefighters who were riding on the rear.After noticing a missing fire truck, fellow first responders searched for the fireman as every second counted. Once located, all three men were rescued from the burning canyon and transported by ambulance to a hospital. Each sustained serious injuries. The trapped driver suffered second-degree burns to his upper body.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771519060774.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We are grateful for the fellow first responders who, like these brave Rosston firefighters, came from across the state to assist Oklahomans as this massive wildfire spread. They pushed flames back from homes, evacuated residents, and moved livestock for people they may never meet." the OHP wrote."Please keep these three firefighters in your thoughts as they recover, along with the men and women who continue responding to the ongoing wildfire threat."

Injured firefighters rescued after crash in burning canyon

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;On Wednesday,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger&nbsp;Marshall, M.D. praised President Trump’s nominations of Kansas Bureau of Investigations Director Tony Mattivi, Great Bend Attorney Jeffrey M. Kuhlman, and Kansas Solicitor General Anthony J. Powell as judges on the United States District Court for the District of Kansas.

“President Trump has selected three exceptional Kansans who bring to the bench deep legal experience, strong judgment, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law,”&nbsp;said Senator&nbsp;Marshall.&nbsp;“Tony Mattivi’s career as a federal prosecutor and as a leader in the fight against terrorism, violent crime, and drug trafficking speaks volumes about the depth of his expertise; Jeff Kuhlman’s experience clerking for Federal judges and representing Kansas communities demonstrate his strong commitment to our State; and Anthony Powell’s decades of service as a legislator, judge and now Kansas Solicitor General exemplify his steadfast commitment to justice and public service. While there were many options from which to choose, these three Kansans will bring a rare depth of professional experience to the District Court, ensuring that justice is served and our constitutional principles are steadfastly upheld.

“These nominees understand the Constitution, respect the law as written, and have dedicated their careers to serving and protecting Kansans. I’m grateful to President Trump for selecting such highly qualified individuals, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to confirm them swiftly.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732738766889.png" alt="Tony Mattivi, director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation photo (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Tony Mattivi, director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation photo (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;On Wednesday,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger&nbsp;Marshall, M.D. praised President Trump’s nominations of Kansas Bureau of Investigations Director Tony Mattivi, Great Bend Attorney Jeffrey M. Kuhlman, and Kansas Solicitor General Anthony J. Powell as judges on the United States District Court for the District of Kansas.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump nominated three outstanding Kansans for the federal bench. Tony Mattivi, Jeff Kuhlman, and Anthony Powell bring deep legal experience, strong judgment, and a steadfast commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law. Grateful for their service—and I look… <a href="https://t.co/h7luMz7qnF">pic.twitter.com/h7luMz7qnF</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/2024299139438141731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“President Trump has selected three exceptional Kansans who bring to the bench deep legal experience, strong judgment, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law,”&nbsp;said Senator&nbsp;Marshall.&nbsp;“Tony Mattivi’s career as a federal prosecutor and as a leader in the fight against terrorism, violent crime, and drug trafficking speaks volumes about the depth of his expertise; Jeff Kuhlman’s experience clerking for Federal judges and representing Kansas communities demonstrate his strong commitment to our State; and Anthony Powell’s decades of service as a legislator, judge and now Kansas Solicitor General exemplify his steadfast commitment to justice and public service. While there were many options from which to choose, these three Kansans will bring a rare depth of professional experience to the District Court, ensuring that justice is served and our constitutional principles are steadfastly upheld.“These nominees understand the Constitution, respect the law as written, and have dedicated their careers to serving and protecting Kansans. I’m grateful to President Trump for selecting such highly qualified individuals, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to confirm them swiftly.”

President Trump nominates KBI Director for vacancy on U.S. District Court

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Proud to present <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> with a Missouri flag flown over our State Capitol earlier today. Welcome to Missouri 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/LtKuctDwLC">pic.twitter.com/LtKuctDwLC</a>&mdash; Governor Mike Kehoe (@GovMikeKehoe) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovMikeKehoe/status/2024261376768651650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The best of America stepped forward. While visiting St. Louis, Missouri, <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SECWAR</a> administered the Oath of Enlistment to 32 proud Americans. 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/Dzn7K82x0X">pic.twitter.com/Dzn7K82x0X</a>&mdash; Department of War 🇺🇸 (@DeptofWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar/status/2024459309418237976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">To the proud Americans tirelessly rebuilding the Arsenal of Freedom— Build fast. Build lethal. We’ve got your backs. 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/ZtiAsruOGR">pic.twitter.com/ZtiAsruOGR</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/2024318205817499943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">St. Louis is the heart of America&#39;s defense industry. Our workers have built the greatest machines used by our military &amp; will make America&#39;s next-generation fighter plane. Proud to join <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> at Boeing today to celebrate our workforce and commit to peace through strength🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/aw8zwH3WWG">pic.twitter.com/aw8zwH3WWG</a>&mdash; Senator Eric Schmitt (@SenEricSchmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenEricSchmitt/status/2024285746173977056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Proud to be in St. Louis today to welcome <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> Pete Hegseth to the Show Me State for his Arsenal of Freedom Tour. We celebrated <a href="https://twitter.com/Boeing?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Boeing</a> moving its defense manufacturing HQ back to Missouri, now known as Fighter Land, USA! <a href="https://t.co/ayXnLwNljs">pic.twitter.com/ayXnLwNljs</a>&mdash; Rep. Mark Alford (@RepMarkAlford) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMarkAlford/status/2024296131224543698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We also shared how a new defense corridor is emerging, stretching from St. Louis to Wichita with Kansas City in the center of it all, thanks to the historic investments in our national defense from the Working Families Tax Cut law and <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>’ efforts to rebuild our defense…&mdash; Rep. Mark Alford (@RepMarkAlford) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMarkAlford/status/2024296137113395231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Secretary of War makes an important stop in Missouri

KANSAS CITY —When the call came in Sunday afternoon for someone drowning in a lake near Pittman Road and E 43rd, Officers Manley and Hawley raced to the scene, according to a social media report from the Kansas City Missouri Police Department.

The officers found two people in the water, with one deep in the lake, struggling for survival.

Manley and Hawley shed their gear and entered the water, rescuing a young woman.

Manley has been with the department 26 years, while Hawley started her KCPD career four years ago.

KANSAS CITY —When the call came in Sunday afternoon for someone drowning in a lake near Pittman Road and E 43rd, Officers Manley and Hawley raced to the scene, according to a social media report from the Kansas City Missouri Police Department.The officers found two people in the water, with one deep in the lake, struggling for survival.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The video, again: <a href="https://t.co/UB7JmYt7UA">pic.twitter.com/UB7JmYt7UA</a>&mdash; kcpolice (@kcpolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/kcpolice/status/2023847128683225454?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Manley and Hawley shed their gear and entered the water, rescuing a young woman.Manley has been with the department 26 years, while Hawley started her KCPD career four years ago.

🎥KCPD officers rescue woman from drowning 

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kathrynleverenz/">Kathryn Leverenz</a>

A major property tax reform bill in the Missouri House was sent back to a special committee Tuesday over concerns that the bill needed more changes.

Sponsored by state Rep. Tim Taylor, a Republican from Bunceton, the wide-ranging bill would change how property taxes are calculated and when property tax measures are voted on.

“There have been concerns with this bill, and from the very beginning we have strived to try to do the very best we can,” Taylor said. “It was finally decided, after many meetings, that we’re going to bring it back to our committee.”

The Special Committee on Property Tax Reform was formed last June to examine Missouri’s property tax system and recommend solutions. Six informational hearings were held across the state last summer by the committee to allow Missouri residents to share their perspectives on rising property taxes.

State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, a Democrat from Columbia, who is also the ranking minority member for the committee, commended Taylor for his leadership and his decision to send the bill back to the committee.

“I want to thank you for your leadership and having it go back,” Steinhoff said. “I think that is a good place for it to go.”

Steinhoff said that she believes the bill was sent back to committee because of needed clarification over a provision of the bill that would change when voters approve property tax levies from April to November.

Steinhoff also said that because the House did not thoroughly debate the bill on the floor, she believes the move back to committee is a wise decision.

The House initially voted to move the bill forward last Wednesday.

Currently, the assessed value used to determine if property tax rollbacks are required is being diluted because the assessed values on all property classes — residential, commercial and agricultural — in a taxing district are lumped together.

The central provision of the bill is the “siloing” of tax subclasses. This would stop increases in assessed value in one subclass from being diluted by stagnant values in another, allowing the state constitution’s Hancock Amendment to take effect and limit how much personal property taxes can increase.

The bill would also move voting for property tax measures from April elections to November, something that drew concerns from representatives when the bill was brought to the floor last week.

As the bill returns to committee, it will revert to its original form, removing all amendments made on the House floor last week, Taylor said. He added that another public hearing will be held for the bill. On Tuesday, Taylor indicated that he is open to including other amendments.

“He said ‘Bring everything you’ve got,’” Steinhoff said. “I think he is open to hearing some other ideas of what could be included.”

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/major-property-tax-bill-sent-back-to-house-committee/article_3fe2c9a4-8a2b-44f1-b5fd-4656bb350c72.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771499167851.png" alt="State Rep. Tim Taylor, a Boonville Republican, chairs the Missouri House Special Interim Committee on Property Tax Reform (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>State Rep. Tim Taylor, a Boonville Republican, chairs the Missouri House Special Interim Committee on Property Tax Reform (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kathrynleverenz/">Kathryn Leverenz</a>A major property tax reform bill in the Missouri House was sent back to a special committee Tuesday over concerns that the bill needed more changes.Sponsored by state Rep. Tim Taylor, a Republican from Bunceton, the wide-ranging bill would change how property taxes are calculated and when property tax measures are voted on.“There have been concerns with this bill, and from the very beginning we have strived to try to do the very best we can,” Taylor said. “It was finally decided, after many meetings, that we’re going to bring it back to our committee.”The Special Committee on Property Tax Reform was formed last June to examine Missouri’s property tax system and recommend solutions. Six informational hearings were held across the state last summer by the committee to allow Missouri residents to share their perspectives on rising property taxes.State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, a Democrat from Columbia, who is also the ranking minority member for the committee, commended Taylor for his leadership and his decision to send the bill back to the committee.“I want to thank you for your leadership and having it go back,” Steinhoff said. “I think that is a good place for it to go.”Steinhoff said that she believes the bill was sent back to committee because of needed clarification over a provision of the bill that would change when voters approve property tax levies from April to November.Steinhoff also said that because the House did not thoroughly debate the bill on the floor, she believes the move back to committee is a wise decision.The House initially voted to move the bill forward last Wednesday.Currently, the assessed value used to determine if property tax rollbacks are required is being diluted because the assessed values on all property classes — residential, commercial and agricultural — in a taxing district are lumped together.The central provision of the bill is the “siloing” of tax subclasses. This would stop increases in assessed value in one subclass from being diluted by stagnant values in another, allowing the state constitution’s Hancock Amendment to take effect and limit how much personal property taxes can increase.The bill would also move voting for property tax measures from April elections to November, something that drew concerns from representatives when the bill was brought to the floor last week.As the bill returns to committee, it will revert to its original form, removing all amendments made on the House floor last week, Taylor said. He added that another public hearing will be held for the bill. On Tuesday, Taylor indicated that he is open to including other amendments.“He said ‘Bring everything you’ve got,’” Steinhoff said. “I think he is open to hearing some other ideas of what could be included.”This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/major-property-tax-bill-sent-back-to-house-committee/article_3fe2c9a4-8a2b-44f1-b5fd-4656bb350c72.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

Missouri House sends property tax overhaul bill back to committee

WASHINGTON – Carter Camacho, 18,&nbsp; of Smyrna, Georgia,&nbsp;was charged in a complaint Wednesday with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm within the United States Capitol Buildings or Grounds in connection to carrying a loaded shotgun onto federal property, according to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

Camacho made his first appearance in U.S. District Court Wednesday afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge G. Michael Harvey who scheduled a detention hearing for March 2, 2026.

According to the charging documents, on Feb. 17, 2026, Camacho parked a white Mercedes SUV on Maryland Ave. SE, between First and Third Streets. About 12:07 p.m., Camacho exited the vehicle and ran toward the United States Capitol carrying a firearm while wearing a tactical-style vest and camouflage-style clothing.

Camacho reached the steps on the western side of the Capitol. A uniformed officer with the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) asked Camacho what he was carrying. Camacho produced the firearm. The officer ordered Camacho to halt and lie down on the ground.

Once Camacho was on the ground, USCP officers recovered a Mossberg Model 88 12-gauge shotgun loaded with seven rounds in the tube and one in the chamber, with the safety off. An additional 17 rounds of ammunition were held in a carrier attached to the shotgun’s stock.

Officers placed Camacho in handcuffs. Camacho told USCP officers that he was just there to talk to a Member of Congress.

USCP officers traced Camacho’s path to the white Mercedes SUV and located a fixed blade knife on the ground about forty feet from the vehicle.

WASHINGTON —United States Capitol Police (USCP) officers surrounded and arrested a man who ran toward the U.S. Capitol with a loaded shotgun on Tuesday. The arrest happened shortly after noon on the Lower West Terrace, according to a media release from U.S. Capitol Police.

The suspect also had multiple rounds of ammunition and a tactical style vest. USCP officers found the suspect’s SUV in front of the U.S. Botanic Garden on Maryland Avenue, SW. A gas mask and helmet were spotted inside the vehicle.&nbsp;

Thanks to the quick actions of the officers, no one was hurt.

“Just last summer, we held an active threat exercise on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol – in the very location where today’s officers stopped the suspect,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan. “These now routine exercises are planned monthly and in different areas of the Capitol Complex to keep our officers ready for potential threats just like this.”

The suspect, 18-year-old Carter Camacho of Smyrna, GA, was arrested on requested charges of Unlawful Activities, Carrying a Rifle without a License, Unregistered Firearm, and Unregistered Ammunition.&nbsp;

The USCP’s Threat Assessment Section is investigating to determine the suspect’s motive. He was not on file with the USCP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771433240747.png" alt="Photo U.S. Capitol Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Capitol Police</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON – Carter Camacho, 18,&nbsp; of Smyrna, Georgia,&nbsp;was charged in a complaint Wednesday with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm within the United States Capitol Buildings or Grounds in connection to carrying a loaded shotgun onto federal property, according to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.Camacho made his first appearance in U.S. District Court Wednesday afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge G. Michael Harvey who scheduled a detention hearing for March 2, 2026.According to the charging documents, on Feb. 17, 2026, Camacho parked a white Mercedes SUV on Maryland Ave. SE, between First and Third Streets. About 12:07 p.m., Camacho exited the vehicle and ran toward the United States Capitol carrying a firearm while wearing a tactical-style vest and camouflage-style clothing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771501624947.png" alt="Camacho seen on security cameras -photo U.S. Department of Justice" />
 <figcaption>Camacho seen on security cameras -photo U.S. Department of Justice</figcaption>
 </figure>Camacho reached the steps on the western side of the Capitol. A uniformed officer with the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) asked Camacho what he was carrying. Camacho produced the firearm. The officer ordered Camacho to halt and lie down on the ground.Once Camacho was on the ground, USCP officers recovered a Mossberg Model 88 12-gauge shotgun loaded with seven rounds in the tube and one in the chamber, with the safety off. An additional 17 rounds of ammunition were held in a carrier attached to the shotgun’s stock.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771433218764.png" alt="Photo U.S. Capitol Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Capitol Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers placed Camacho in handcuffs. Camacho told USCP officers that he was just there to talk to a Member of Congress.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. <a href="https://twitter.com/CapitolPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CapitolPolice</a> on incident today: &quot;A gentleman parked...he exited the vehicle with a shotgun and began running up towards the Capitol...Capitol police officers observed this individual, challenged him and ordered him to drop the weapon and get on ground which he did comply… <a href="https://t.co/7EhRK1hTmL">pic.twitter.com/7EhRK1hTmL</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2023848973208113535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>USCP officers traced Camacho’s path to the white Mercedes SUV and located a fixed blade knife on the ground about forty feet from the vehicle.---------------WASHINGTON —United States Capitol Police (USCP) officers surrounded and arrested a man who ran toward the U.S. Capitol with a loaded shotgun on Tuesday. The arrest happened shortly after noon on the Lower West Terrace, according to a media release from U.S. Capitol Police.The suspect also had multiple rounds of ammunition and a tactical style vest. USCP officers found the suspect’s SUV in front of the U.S. Botanic Garden on Maryland Avenue, SW. A gas mask and helmet were spotted inside the vehicle.&nbsp;Thanks to the quick actions of the officers, no one was hurt.“Just last summer, we held an active threat exercise on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol – in the very location where today’s officers stopped the suspect,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan. “These now routine exercises are planned monthly and in different areas of the Capitol Complex to keep our officers ready for potential threats just like this.”The suspect, 18-year-old Carter Camacho of Smyrna, GA, was arrested on requested charges of Unlawful Activities, Carrying a Rifle without a License, Unregistered Firearm, and Unregistered Ammunition.&nbsp;The USCP’s Threat Assessment Section is investigating to determine the suspect’s motive. He was not on file with the USCP.

Man who charged U.S. Capitol with loaded shotgun faces a judge

SHAWNEE COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested a Kansas man Tuesday afternoon for an alleged child sex offense.

On Tuesday, Feb. 17, KBI agents with the Child Victims Unit arrested Charles K. VanCamp, 26, in Topeka. VanCamp was arrested for a charge of criminal sodomy, and two counts of sexual exploitation of a child.&nbsp;

On Dec. 18, 2025, KBI agents executed a search warrant at VanCamp’s residence after receiving a cyber-tip that was submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Evidence was seized from the residence.

Following his arrest VanCamp was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Additional charges against VanCamp are expected.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771447837067.png" alt="Vancamp photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Vancamp photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested a Kansas man Tuesday afternoon for an alleged child sex offense.On Tuesday, Feb. 17, KBI agents with the Child Victims Unit arrested Charles K. VanCamp, 26, in Topeka. VanCamp was arrested for a charge of criminal sodomy, and two counts of sexual exploitation of a child.&nbsp;On Dec. 18, 2025, KBI agents executed a search warrant at VanCamp’s residence after receiving a cyber-tip that was submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Evidence was seized from the residence.Following his arrest VanCamp was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Additional charges against VanCamp are expected.

KBI: Cyber-tip led to arrest of Kansas man for child sex crimes

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 1:30p.m. February 14,&nbsp;a Sheriff’s Deputy initiated a traffic stop on a 2000 Oldsmobile Alero passenger vehicle for a traffic infraction in rural Jackson County, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

The driver 40-year-old Shane Christopher Garrison, and the passenger 39-year-old Cheyanna Marie Gordon both of Horton were placed under arrest. 

 Garrison was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of THC and possession of drug paraphernalia. Gordon was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methampehtamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of THC and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771448081084.png" alt="Garrison-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Garrison-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after 1:30p.m. February 14,&nbsp;a Sheriff’s Deputy initiated a traffic stop on a 2000 Oldsmobile Alero passenger vehicle for a traffic infraction in rural Jackson County, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771448137250.png" alt="Gordon photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Gordon photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver 40-year-old Shane Christopher Garrison, and the passenger 39-year-old Cheyanna Marie Gordon both of Horton were placed under arrest. Garrison was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of THC and possession of drug paraphernalia. Gordon was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methampehtamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of THC and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Traffic stop ruins Valentine's Day for Kansas couple

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

German chemical giant Bayer has agreed to pay $7.25 billion to settle thousands of lawsuits alleging its Roundup weedkiller causes cancer.

The proposed settlement — which must be approved by a St. Louis court — would compensate people nationwide who were exposed to Roundup products and diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as those who are diagnosed in the future.

“When an innocent person is harmed through no fault of their own, accountability is not optional — it is necessary,” said Eric Holland, a St. Louis attorney for plaintiffs. “While no financial recovery can reverse a diagnosis or turn back time, this settlement will provide substantial support and offer stability to the families who need it most.”

Bayer has faced an avalanche of litigation contending that glyphosate — an ingredient patented by Missouri-based Monsanto in 1971 — can cause non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and that Roundup labels failed to warn users about the risk.

Bayer acquired Monsanto in 2018 and operates its U.S. agricultural business as Bayer Crop Science.

The company has paid about $11 billion to settle nearly 100,000 Roundup lawsuits, with roughly 61,000 still pending, according to a website that tracks the litigation. Bayer has already stopped making glyphosate-based Roundup for home use and, in September, said it was seeking regulatory approval for a new herbicide to replace glyphosate-based Roundup for agricultural and commercial use in the U.S., Europe, Canada, Australia and Brazil.

The new settlement follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to hear Bayer’s appeal arguing that federal law preempts state failure-to-warn claims involving the Roundup label. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency does not require Roundup labels to warn about non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

In Missouri, Bayer has spent the last two years pushing lawmakers to pass legislation that would shield the company from certain lawsuits. The bill narrowly passed the Missouri House last year, but lobbying missteps — including a campaign targeting some of the most conservative members of the state Senate — ultimately derailed the effort.

In October, the Missouri Supreme Court declined to hear Bayer’s appeal of a $600 million judgment in a Roundup lawsuit brought by four people who said they developed cancer after regularly using the product to control weeds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593022262288.png" alt="Monsanto Roundup-Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Monsanto Roundup-Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>German chemical giant Bayer has agreed to pay $7.25 billion to settle thousands of lawsuits alleging its Roundup weedkiller causes cancer.The proposed settlement — which must be approved by a St. Louis court — would compensate people nationwide who were exposed to Roundup products and diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as those who are diagnosed in the future.“When an innocent person is harmed through no fault of their own, accountability is not optional — it is necessary,” said Eric Holland, a St. Louis attorney for plaintiffs. “While no financial recovery can reverse a diagnosis or turn back time, this settlement will provide substantial support and offer stability to the families who need it most.”Bayer has faced an avalanche of litigation contending that glyphosate — an ingredient patented by Missouri-based Monsanto in 1971 — can cause non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and that Roundup labels failed to warn users about the risk.Bayer acquired Monsanto in 2018 and operates its U.S. agricultural business as Bayer Crop Science.The company has paid about $11 billion to settle nearly 100,000 Roundup lawsuits, with roughly 61,000 still pending, according to a website that tracks the litigation. Bayer has already stopped making glyphosate-based Roundup for home use and, in September, said it was seeking regulatory approval for a new herbicide to replace glyphosate-based Roundup for agricultural and commercial use in the U.S., Europe, Canada, Australia and Brazil.The new settlement follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to hear Bayer’s appeal arguing that federal law preempts state failure-to-warn claims involving the Roundup label. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency does not require Roundup labels to warn about non-Hodgkin lymphoma.In Missouri, Bayer has spent the last two years pushing lawmakers to pass legislation that would shield the company from certain lawsuits. The bill narrowly passed the Missouri House last year, but lobbying missteps — including a campaign targeting some of the most conservative members of the state Senate — ultimately derailed the effort.In October, the Missouri Supreme Court declined to hear Bayer’s appeal of a $600 million judgment in a Roundup lawsuit brought by four people who said they developed cancer after regularly using the product to control weeds.

Bayer agrees to $7.25 billion settlement in Roundup cancer lawsuits

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansans will soon be required to use the bathroom of their biological sex at birth in all government buildings after the House joined the Senate Wednesday to override Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto.&nbsp;

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/" target="_blank">House Substitute for Senate Bill 244</a>&nbsp;will go into effect immediately after paperwork is filed at the Secretary of State’s office. Along with the public facilities regulations, the bill requires Kansans to use the gender marker of their biological sex at birth on their driver’s licenses and birth certificates. It invalidates documents that were issued to transgender people previously.&nbsp;

The House&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/vote_view/je_20260218120124_975402/" target="_blank">vote was 87 to 37</a>, with Republican Rep. Mark Schreiber joining all Democrats present in opposing the bill. It passed the Senate on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Kelly said in a statement after her veto was overridden that the bill was poorly drafted and will cost taxpayers millions of dollars to comply.&nbsp;

“It is nothing short of ridiculous that the Legislature is forcing the entire state, every city and town, every school district, every public university to spend taxpayer money on a manufactured problem,” she said. “Kansans elected them to focus on education, job creation, housing, and grocery costs.”

Just four Democratic opponents were able to debate the bill before Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, made a motion of the previous question, which means all debate stops and a vote is immediately taken.

Rep. Heather Meyer, an Overland Park Democrat, said the legislation was discriminatory and “paints a bullseye” on the backs of legislative colleagues who are trans women, including Rep. Abi Boatman, D-Wichita, and former representative Stephanie Byers, a Democrat from Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I feel safer in a restroom with those representatives than I do or would with some people here, including women, and I’m not even joking about that,” she said.&nbsp;

Rep. Alexis Simmons, D-Topeka, said she took issue with a statement that the bill codifies societal norms.&nbsp;

“We used to also have a law that women were subjugated to pregnancy and marriage because that was considered the societal norm,” she said. “Societal norms also would have included slavery and Jim Crow and other horrific stains on our nation’s history.”

Rep. Lindsay Vaughn, D-Overland Park, said evidence shows that bills like SB 244 negatively impact the mental health of trans people and cause “hateful stereotypes.”&nbsp;

“Attempting to legislate away the rights of people who are different from you has played out in history time and again,” she said. “So I want to ask which side of history does this body want to be on today?”

After debate was shut down, many Democratic opponents used the one-minute opportunity to explain their vote to show support for trans people and their frustration with the bill.&nbsp;

Rep. Carolyn Caiharr, R-Edwardsville, supported the bill and voted to overturn the veto.&nbsp;

“Our young women deserve to have restrooms and locker rooms where they can undress without men in the room. This bill protects girls and women, the ones feminists used to claim to stand for,” she said.&nbsp;

Along with opposing the bill, several Democrats talked about the fact that debate was cut short Wednesday, and that the process allowed no public input on the bathroom restrictions.&nbsp;

“Statesmanship requires the willingness to listen to those you disagree with, to care when you are exhausted, and to respect when you are not willing to,” said Rep. Kirk Haskins, D-Topeka. “Trans women are women. Trans men are men. They deserve our protection, even if we don’t want to listen to them.”

Rep. Lynn Melton, D-Kansas City, said lawmakers were silenced during the debate on SB 244.&nbsp;

“Kansans want tax relief and affordability,” she said. “Fourteen voices were silenced today that represent thousands of people who deserve to be heard. Shame on this chamber.”

Kansas House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, said in a statement that SB 244 protects privacy and safety.&nbsp;

“While the Governor fearmongers and muddies the water with her misleading veto message, our position remains steady: This isn’t about scoring political points, but doing what’s right for women and girls across our communities,” he said. “Kansans expect clarity, not confusion.”

Advocacy groups joined in a written statement criticizing the passage of SB 244 and raising concerns about its effects.&nbsp;

“This discriminatory bill undermines our state’s strong constitutional protections against government overreach and persecution,” said Micah&nbsp; Kubic, executive director of ACLU of Kansas.

Michael Poppa, executive director of Mainstream Coalition, said the legislativesupermajority was targeting an already marginalized community.&nbsp;

“Kansas families are being crushed by rising housing and healthcare costs. Small businesses face workforce shortages,” he said. “Rural communities are losing hospitals and struggling with failing infrastructure. These are the issues that demand action.”

Other organizations included in the statement were&nbsp;Equality Kansas, Kansas Interfaith Action, Loud Light Civic Action and Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771449237283.png" alt=" Rep. Heather Meyer debates the “bathroom bill” that passed the House Feb. 18, 2026. She says it paints a “bullseye” on trans people. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Rep. Heather Meyer debates the “bathroom bill” that passed the House Feb. 18, 2026. She says it paints a “bullseye” on trans people. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansans will soon be required to use the bathroom of their biological sex at birth in all government buildings after the House joined the Senate Wednesday to override Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto.&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/" target="_blank">House Substitute for Senate Bill 244</a>&nbsp;will go into effect immediately after paperwork is filed at the Secretary of State’s office. Along with the public facilities regulations, the bill requires Kansans to use the gender marker of their biological sex at birth on their driver’s licenses and birth certificates. It invalidates documents that were issued to transgender people previously.&nbsp;The House&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/vote_view/je_20260218120124_975402/" target="_blank">vote was 87 to 37</a>, with Republican Rep. Mark Schreiber joining all Democrats present in opposing the bill. It passed the Senate on Tuesday.&nbsp;Kelly said in a statement after her veto was overridden that the bill was poorly drafted and will cost taxpayers millions of dollars to comply.&nbsp;“It is nothing short of ridiculous that the Legislature is forcing the entire state, every city and town, every school district, every public university to spend taxpayer money on a manufactured problem,” she said. “Kansans elected them to focus on education, job creation, housing, and grocery costs.”Just four Democratic opponents were able to debate the bill before Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, made a motion of the previous question, which means all debate stops and a vote is immediately taken.Rep. Heather Meyer, an Overland Park Democrat, said the legislation was discriminatory and “paints a bullseye” on the backs of legislative colleagues who are trans women, including Rep. Abi Boatman, D-Wichita, and former representative Stephanie Byers, a Democrat from Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I feel safer in a restroom with those representatives than I do or would with some people here, including women, and I’m not even joking about that,” she said.&nbsp;Rep. Alexis Simmons, D-Topeka, said she took issue with a statement that the bill codifies societal norms.&nbsp;“We used to also have a law that women were subjugated to pregnancy and marriage because that was considered the societal norm,” she said. “Societal norms also would have included slavery and Jim Crow and other horrific stains on our nation’s history.”Rep. Lindsay Vaughn, D-Overland Park, said evidence shows that bills like SB 244 negatively impact the mental health of trans people and cause “hateful stereotypes.”&nbsp;“Attempting to legislate away the rights of people who are different from you has played out in history time and again,” she said. “So I want to ask which side of history does this body want to be on today?”After debate was shut down, many Democratic opponents used the one-minute opportunity to explain their vote to show support for trans people and their frustration with the bill.&nbsp;Rep. Carolyn Caiharr, R-Edwardsville, supported the bill and voted to overturn the veto.&nbsp;“Our young women deserve to have restrooms and locker rooms where they can undress without men in the room. This bill protects girls and women, the ones feminists used to claim to stand for,” she said.&nbsp;Along with opposing the bill, several Democrats talked about the fact that debate was cut short Wednesday, and that the process allowed no public input on the bathroom restrictions.&nbsp;“Statesmanship requires the willingness to listen to those you disagree with, to care when you are exhausted, and to respect when you are not willing to,” said Rep. Kirk Haskins, D-Topeka. “Trans women are women. Trans men are men. They deserve our protection, even if we don’t want to listen to them.”Rep. Lynn Melton, D-Kansas City, said lawmakers were silenced during the debate on SB 244.&nbsp;“Kansans want tax relief and affordability,” she said. “Fourteen voices were silenced today that represent thousands of people who deserve to be heard. Shame on this chamber.”Kansas House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, said in a statement that SB 244 protects privacy and safety.&nbsp;“While the Governor fearmongers and muddies the water with her misleading veto message, our position remains steady: This isn’t about scoring political points, but doing what’s right for women and girls across our communities,” he said. “Kansans expect clarity, not confusion.”Advocacy groups joined in a written statement criticizing the passage of SB 244 and raising concerns about its effects.&nbsp;“This discriminatory bill undermines our state’s strong constitutional protections against government overreach and persecution,” said Micah&nbsp; Kubic, executive director of ACLU of Kansas.Michael Poppa, executive director of Mainstream Coalition, said the legislativesupermajority was targeting an already marginalized community.&nbsp;“Kansas families are being crushed by rising housing and healthcare costs. Small businesses face workforce shortages,” he said. “Rural communities are losing hospitals and struggling with failing infrastructure. These are the issues that demand action.”Other organizations included in the statement were&nbsp;Equality Kansas, Kansas Interfaith Action, Loud Light Civic Action and Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes.

Kan. House overrides veto; ‘bathroom bill’ limiting access to facilities will become law 

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Tuesday in Kansas City.

A silver Nissan Altima was eastbound on Interstate 70 approaching Stadium Drive in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez. The driver failed to stop for congested traffic ahead. The Nissan Altima rear-ended a black Nissan full-size van, resulting in a four-vehicle collision. 

Two individuals were transported to an area hospital with critical injuries. EMS pronounced one passenger deceased at the scene. This is fatality #9 in KCMO in 2026, according to Gonzalez.

Police released no additional details including the name of the victims.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771446345811.png" alt="Image from KC Scout camera" />
 <figcaption>Image from KC Scout camera</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Tuesday in Kansas City.A silver Nissan Altima was eastbound on Interstate 70 approaching Stadium Drive in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez. The driver failed to stop for congested traffic ahead. The Nissan Altima rear-ended a black Nissan full-size van, resulting in a four-vehicle collision. Two individuals were transported to an area hospital with critical injuries. EMS pronounced one passenger deceased at the scene. This is fatality #9 in KCMO in 2026, according to Gonzalez.Police released no additional details including the name of the victims.

KCPD: One dead after 4-vehicle I-70 crash

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/"></a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/29/kansan-returns-to-the-catholic-church-as-the-states-first-woman-priest/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Cellphones are one step closer to disappearing from Kansas classrooms after the House passed a bill that would require a daytime device ban to public and private schools.

Social connection, phone addiction and parental choice came into play in an hours-long debate Monday that involved Republicans and Democrats crossing the aisle to ultimately support a bill that would apply to public and private schools.

The bipartisan ban proposes a bell-to-bell prohibition on cellphone use, requiring schools to craft detailed policies to ensure devices are turned off and stored away during the school day and to enact disciplinary measures for students who violate a ban.

A cascade of changes as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb281/" target="_blank">House Substitute for Senate Bill 281</a>&nbsp;made its way through committee resulted in a bill that only mandated a ban in public schools and merely suggested one for private schools.

Republican Rep. Jill Ward of Wichita added a provision Monday to apply the mandate to both public and nonpublic schools. The bill itself drew mixed reactions from each party, and so did Ward’s amendment.

​​“These kids’ lives are just as negatively impacted by phones as those that attend public schools,” Ward said.

Students wouldn’t be allowed under the bill to use cellphones or other electronic communication devices, smartwatches and earbuds during the school day, which includes passing period and lunch time, unless the student is allowed to leave school grounds during lunch.

Rep. Kristey Williams, an Augusta Republican, said private schools should receive the same funding as public schools if the same rules must apply. She said she agreed with the need to address devices and their connection to mental health issues in children, but she said the bill, with Ward’s amendment, would be equivalent to a de facto state operation of private, religious schools.

She said many parents choose private schools because they don’t want to deal with state mandates.

Ward’s amendment passed with 68 voting in favor and 55 against.

Some Democrats opposed the bill entirely, favoring phones in school in the event of emergencies such as natural disasters or school shootings. Others didn’t think a one-size-fits-all policy was appropriate for schools with unique needs.

Rep. Carolyn Caiharr, a Republican from Edwardsville, attempted to strip the bill, re-adding language to make bans optional for private schools.

Some, like Republican Rep. Sean Tarwater of Stilwell, were torn. He said Monday that he couldn’t support Caiharr’s amendment, arguing that all children matter.

“In my opinion, children are children, mental health is mental health and suicide is suicide, no matter what school you go to,” Tarwater said. “Are we trying to help some children or all children here?”

Caiharr said Kansas has a long tradition of respecting educational diversity and removing private schools from the bill maintains that tradition.

Sixty seven representatives opposed her amendment, and 54 voted in favor, retaining the inclusion of private and public schools. The House voted on the bill Tuesday with 76 in favor and 45 against, forwarding it to the Senate.

The Senate unanimously passed a previous version of the bill, which applied to both public and private schools, but it must vote again in the wake of House changes.

Rep. Angela Martinez, a Wichita Democrat, said Tuesday a phone-free school day restores focus and encourages relationship building. Rep. Steven Howe, a Salina Republican, said a cellphone ban restores human connection and slackens the grip big tech companies have exercised over kids’ attention.

Rep. Samantha Poetter Parshall, a Paola Republican, said the bill leaves students helpless, eliminating a tool used to document bullying and removing a piece of parents’ rights.

Williams said Tuesday decisions for private school students should be up to parents and individual schools, not the state.

“This bill opens a door we should keep closed,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771439449816.jpeg" alt=" Republican Reps. Kristey Williams, of Augusta, and Sean Tarwater, of Stilwell, are on opposing sides of a bill to ban cellphones in all public and accredited nonpublic schools. They appear here on the House floor on April 6, 2023, in Topeka, Kansas. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Republican Reps. Kristey Williams, of Augusta, and Sean Tarwater, of Stilwell, are on opposing sides of a bill to ban cellphones in all public and accredited nonpublic schools. They appear here on the House floor on April 6, 2023, in Topeka, Kansas. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/"></a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/29/kansan-returns-to-the-catholic-church-as-the-states-first-woman-priest/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Cellphones are one step closer to disappearing from Kansas classrooms after the House passed a bill that would require a daytime device ban to public and private schools.Social connection, phone addiction and parental choice came into play in an hours-long debate Monday that involved Republicans and Democrats crossing the aisle to ultimately support a bill that would apply to public and private schools.The bipartisan ban proposes a bell-to-bell prohibition on cellphone use, requiring schools to craft detailed policies to ensure devices are turned off and stored away during the school day and to enact disciplinary measures for students who violate a ban.A cascade of changes as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb281/" target="_blank">House Substitute for Senate Bill 281</a>&nbsp;made its way through committee resulted in a bill that only mandated a ban in public schools and merely suggested one for private schools.Republican Rep. Jill Ward of Wichita added a provision Monday to apply the mandate to both public and nonpublic schools. The bill itself drew mixed reactions from each party, and so did Ward’s amendment.​​“These kids’ lives are just as negatively impacted by phones as those that attend public schools,” Ward said.Students wouldn’t be allowed under the bill to use cellphones or other electronic communication devices, smartwatches and earbuds during the school day, which includes passing period and lunch time, unless the student is allowed to leave school grounds during lunch.Rep. Kristey Williams, an Augusta Republican, said private schools should receive the same funding as public schools if the same rules must apply. She said she agreed with the need to address devices and their connection to mental health issues in children, but she said the bill, with Ward’s amendment, would be equivalent to a de facto state operation of private, religious schools.She said many parents choose private schools because they don’t want to deal with state mandates.Ward’s amendment passed with 68 voting in favor and 55 against.Some Democrats opposed the bill entirely, favoring phones in school in the event of emergencies such as natural disasters or school shootings. Others didn’t think a one-size-fits-all policy was appropriate for schools with unique needs.Rep. Carolyn Caiharr, a Republican from Edwardsville, attempted to strip the bill, re-adding language to make bans optional for private schools.Some, like Republican Rep. Sean Tarwater of Stilwell, were torn. He said Monday that he couldn’t support Caiharr’s amendment, arguing that all children matter.“In my opinion, children are children, mental health is mental health and suicide is suicide, no matter what school you go to,” Tarwater said. “Are we trying to help some children or all children here?”Caiharr said Kansas has a long tradition of respecting educational diversity and removing private schools from the bill maintains that tradition.Sixty seven representatives opposed her amendment, and 54 voted in favor, retaining the inclusion of private and public schools. The House voted on the bill Tuesday with 76 in favor and 45 against, forwarding it to the Senate.The Senate unanimously passed a previous version of the bill, which applied to both public and private schools, but it must vote again in the wake of House changes.Rep. Angela Martinez, a Wichita Democrat, said Tuesday a phone-free school day restores focus and encourages relationship building. Rep. Steven Howe, a Salina Republican, said a cellphone ban restores human connection and slackens the grip big tech companies have exercised over kids’ attention.Rep. Samantha Poetter Parshall, a Paola Republican, said the bill leaves students helpless, eliminating a tool used to document bullying and removing a piece of parents’ rights.Williams said Tuesday decisions for private school students should be up to parents and individual schools, not the state.“This bill opens a door we should keep closed,” she said.

Kansas cellphone ban applying to both public and private schools clears House 

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a series of homicides over the past week in Kansas City, Missouri

Just before 2p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the VA hospital in Kansas City on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Officer&nbsp;Alayna Gonzalez.

Upon officers arrival, they contacted several individuals who had stated the shooting occurred in the 2900 block of Brighton Avenue. The victim, later identified as 46-year-old Richard Ennis was transported by private conveyance to the VA hospital for medical treatment. VA hospital staff advised officers he was pronounced deceased.

Preliminary information provided by a witness stated that she was inside of her residence when she heard several sounds of shots outside of her home. She exited the residence and located Ennis lying in the street suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. An adult male suspect was seen entering an unknown vehicle and left the area in an unknown direction.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.

Just after 2a.m. Sunday Jackson County Sheriff’s deputies were in the area of 28th and Southwest Boulevard working off duty for a nightclub/bar business there when they heard the sound of gunfire inside the bar, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

At the same time 911 received calls for a shooting inside the business.&nbsp;On arrival officers were led inside the business where they located 3 adult female shooting victims.&nbsp;

Officers began rendering aid and called for EMS to come in.&nbsp;EMS declared one shooting victim deceased at the scene. EMS&nbsp; then transported the other two victims to the hospital for treatment. At the hospital one of the two victims was declared deceased, and the other victim has what is believed to be non-life threatening injuries, according to Becchina.&nbsp; The women who died have been identified as 29-year-old Eboni Silas and 24-year-old Tishauna Ballard, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

While officers were at the scene they were notified of a 4th shooting victim, an adult male, who arrived at the hospital by private vehicle. That victim was reported to be in critical condition.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Preliminary information indicates the victims were inside the business when there was an interaction with one or more suspects that escalated and led to shots being fired which struck the victims.&nbsp; Police have not released any details on a possible suspect.

Just after 5:30p.m. Feb 12, police were dispatched to 20th and Monroe on a sound of shots call in the area. 911 received multiple additional calls of sound of shots and eventually one call reporting a shooting victim down in a wooded area of a series of vacant lots in the 2000 block of Monroe.

On arrival officers made their way into the vacant lots and located a male shooting victim later identified as 25-year-old Terrion M. Johnson. unresponsive there. Officers rendered aid and called for EMS. EMS responded and took over aid. They eventually declared the victim deceased here at the scene.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Preliminary indication indicates the shooting occurred on 20th street between Askew and Monroe and Johnson ran to the south where he was located.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just after 8p.m. Feb. 11, police&nbsp;were dispatched to a shooting in 1500 block of E 59th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.&nbsp; The caller advised there was a person outside that appeared to be injured and needed help.&nbsp;

On arrival officers located a victim later identified as 28-year-old&nbsp;Jamon Norfleet in front of a residence there. Norfleet told officers he had been shot at a nearby location near an apartment complex in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road.

The victim was unable to provide any additional information regarding suspects.&nbsp;Officers called for EMS who transported the victim to the hospital with life threatening injuries.&nbsp;

Additional officers responded to the area described by the victim in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road and located evidence of a crime scene at that location.&nbsp;

Detectives and Crime Scene investigators began conducing investigation and processing the scene for evidence.&nbsp;Later in the evening detectives were notified from the hospital that&nbsp;Jamon Norfleet had died.

At 9:30p.m. Feb. 10, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of E. Armour Blvd. in Kansas City, Missouri, on a sound of shots call, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.

Multiple callers reported the sound of gunfire from behind an apartment building there. On arrival officers were directed to a parking lot in the back of an apartment building where they located a vehicle with shooting victims identified as 26-year-old Brittnee McMillon and and 28-year-old Jerrell Westmoreland.unresponsive inside.&nbsp;

Officers called for EMS who declared both victims deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Homicide detectives responded to the scene to conduct their investigation along with crime scene investigators processed the scene for available evidence.&nbsp; Police have not released details on possible suspects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770981892242.png" alt="Police at the scene of the investigation near&nbsp;20th and Monroe on Thursday-photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene of the investigation near&nbsp;20th and Monroe on Thursday-photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a series of homicides over the past week in Kansas City, Missouri<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As our community grieves the loss of Eboni Silas and Tishauna Ballard and prays for the recovery of other victims, the City’s multidisciplinary public safety task force will work to investigate any violations that evening that could have helped prevent what happened. I also ask… <a href="https://t.co/8dapWNDcip">pic.twitter.com/8dapWNDcip</a>&mdash; Mayor Quinton Lucas (@MayorLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorLucasKC/status/2023871889882419646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Just before 2p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the VA hospital in Kansas City on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Officer&nbsp;Alayna Gonzalez.Upon officers arrival, they contacted several individuals who had stated the shooting occurred in the 2900 block of Brighton Avenue. The victim, later identified as 46-year-old Richard Ennis was transported by private conveyance to the VA hospital for medical treatment. VA hospital staff advised officers he was pronounced deceased.Preliminary information provided by a witness stated that she was inside of her residence when she heard several sounds of shots outside of her home. She exited the residence and located Ennis lying in the street suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. An adult male suspect was seen entering an unknown vehicle and left the area in an unknown direction.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.Just after 2a.m. Sunday Jackson County Sheriff’s deputies were in the area of 28th and Southwest Boulevard working off duty for a nightclub/bar business there when they heard the sound of gunfire inside the bar, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.At the same time 911 received calls for a shooting inside the business.&nbsp;On arrival officers were led inside the business where they located 3 adult female shooting victims.&nbsp;Officers began rendering aid and called for EMS to come in.&nbsp;EMS declared one shooting victim deceased at the scene. EMS&nbsp; then transported the other two victims to the hospital for treatment. At the hospital one of the two victims was declared deceased, and the other victim has what is believed to be non-life threatening injuries, according to Becchina.&nbsp; The women who died have been identified as 29-year-old Eboni Silas and 24-year-old Tishauna Ballard, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.While officers were at the scene they were notified of a 4th shooting victim, an adult male, who arrived at the hospital by private vehicle. That victim was reported to be in critical condition.&nbsp;&nbsp;Preliminary information indicates the victims were inside the business when there was an interaction with one or more suspects that escalated and led to shots being fired which struck the victims.&nbsp; Police have not released any details on a possible suspect.Just after 5:30p.m. Feb 12, police were dispatched to 20th and Monroe on a sound of shots call in the area. 911 received multiple additional calls of sound of shots and eventually one call reporting a shooting victim down in a wooded area of a series of vacant lots in the 2000 block of Monroe.On arrival officers made their way into the vacant lots and located a male shooting victim later identified as 25-year-old Terrion M. Johnson. unresponsive there. Officers rendered aid and called for EMS. EMS responded and took over aid. They eventually declared the victim deceased here at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Preliminary indication indicates the shooting occurred on 20th street between Askew and Monroe and Johnson ran to the south where he was located.&nbsp;&nbsp;Just after 8p.m. Feb. 11, police&nbsp;were dispatched to a shooting in 1500 block of E 59th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.&nbsp; The caller advised there was a person outside that appeared to be injured and needed help.&nbsp;On arrival officers located a victim later identified as 28-year-old&nbsp;Jamon Norfleet in front of a residence there. Norfleet told officers he had been shot at a nearby location near an apartment complex in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road.The victim was unable to provide any additional information regarding suspects.&nbsp;Officers called for EMS who transported the victim to the hospital with life threatening injuries.&nbsp;Additional officers responded to the area described by the victim in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road and located evidence of a crime scene at that location.&nbsp;Detectives and Crime Scene investigators began conducing investigation and processing the scene for evidence.&nbsp;Later in the evening detectives were notified from the hospital that&nbsp;Jamon Norfleet had died.At 9:30p.m. Feb. 10, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of E. Armour Blvd. in Kansas City, Missouri, on a sound of shots call, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.Multiple callers reported the sound of gunfire from behind an apartment building there. On arrival officers were directed to a parking lot in the back of an apartment building where they located a vehicle with shooting victims identified as 26-year-old Brittnee McMillon and and 28-year-old Jerrell Westmoreland.unresponsive inside.&nbsp;Officers called for EMS who declared both victims deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Homicide detectives responded to the scene to conduct their investigation along with crime scene investigators processed the scene for available evidence.&nbsp; Police have not released details on possible suspects.

KCPD: 7 dead after violent week in Kansas City

(Radio Iowa) - The Iowa Environmental Protection Commission is referring an alleged water pollution case to the Iowa Attorney General's office. 

Attorney Bradley Adams says Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy is illegally released sludge from its wastewater treatment facility near Council Bluffs into the Missouri River. He says the investigation found orange wastewater discharging from the effluent pipe, orange coloration of the riverbank where the sludge deposits formed, and also orange sludge deposits buildup in the water beneath the pipe. He says SIRE had been trucking the sludge away from the site but wanted to avoid the fees for trucking away the waste. SIRE C-E-O Eric Fobes, says they were trying to avoid the the truck traffic from hauling the material away and it was not a cost savings move. 

Fobes says his staff thought the discharge in the river was allowed and that was obviously a mistake. He asked the Commission to not send the case to the Attorney General based on their response. The Commission voted to refer the case to the Attorney General with just two commissioners voting no.

(Radio Iowa) - The Iowa Environmental Protection Commission is referring an alleged water pollution case to the Iowa Attorney General's office. Attorney Bradley Adams says Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy is illegally released sludge from its wastewater treatment facility near Council Bluffs into the Missouri River. He says the investigation found orange wastewater discharging from the effluent pipe, orange coloration of the riverbank where the sludge deposits formed, and also orange sludge deposits buildup in the water beneath the pipe. He says SIRE had been trucking the sludge away from the site but wanted to avoid the fees for trucking away the waste. SIRE C-E-O Eric Fobes, says they were trying to avoid the the truck traffic from hauling the material away and it was not a cost savings move. Fobes says his staff thought the discharge in the river was allowed and that was obviously a mistake. He asked the Commission to not send the case to the Attorney General based on their response. The Commission voted to refer the case to the Attorney General with just two commissioners voting no.

EPC Sends Southwest Iowa Business Case To Attorney General

TOPEKA — The Kansas Senate overrode Gov Laura Kelly’s veto on Tuesday, putting the state one step closer to forcing people to use bathrooms in government buildings that match their biological sex at birth.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/" target="_blank">Senate Substitute for House Bill 244</a>&nbsp;was overturned by the Senate, with votes falling along party lines.&nbsp;

As the vote was finalized in the Senate, Rabbi Moti Rieber shouted in anger from the gallery.&nbsp;

“First they came for the trans people, and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t trans,” he yelled.&nbsp;

Rieber was referring to a&nbsp;<a href="https://hmd.org.uk/resource/first-they-came-by-pastor-martin-niemoller/" target="_blank">well-known writing</a>&nbsp;by a German minister after the Holocaust.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771422834835.png" alt=" Sen. Cindy Holscher gave the Kansas Senate a rough estimate of how likely they were to be assaulted in a bathroom by a trans person, determining their risk was .00083%. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption> Sen. Cindy Holscher gave the Kansas Senate a rough estimate of how likely they were to be assaulted in a bathroom by a trans person, determining their risk was .00083%. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Senate overrode Gov Laura Kelly’s veto on Tuesday, putting the state one step closer to forcing people to use bathrooms in government buildings that match their biological sex at birth.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/" target="_blank">Senate Substitute for House Bill 244</a>&nbsp;was overturned by the Senate, with votes falling along party lines.&nbsp;As the vote was finalized in the Senate, Rabbi Moti Rieber shouted in anger from the gallery.&nbsp;“First they came for the trans people, and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t trans,” he yelled.&nbsp;Rieber was referring to a&nbsp;<a href="https://hmd.org.uk/resource/first-they-came-by-pastor-martin-niemoller/" target="_blank">well-known writing</a>&nbsp;by a German minister after the Holocaust.&nbsp;As he was escorted out, Rieber continued to shout, telling the Senate, “Shame on you.”&nbsp;Sen. Dinah Sykes, D-Lenexa, said the bill is the result of a “culture war” and does not serve Kansans well.&nbsp;“Issues like this bill make us a less attractive place for businesses to relocate and start,” she said. “We are poised to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup in just over 100 days. The World Cup is supposed to bring millions of dollars to our region, and we should not be putting that economic impact at risk by playing political games in fighting culture wars.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771422794802.png" alt="Kansas Senate security personnel remove Rabbi Moti Rieber from a Senate hearing after. he shouted, “Shame on you” when the Senate overturned the veto of a “bathroom bill.” (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Senate security personnel remove Rabbi Moti Rieber from a Senate hearing after. he shouted, “Shame on you” when the Senate overturned the veto of a “bathroom bill.” (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Sykes yielded to Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overand Park, taking away the chance for Republicans to “call the question,” a term that would stop debate and put the bill directly to a vote.&nbsp;Someone from the Republican side of the Senate called the question after Sykes began talking, but Senate President Ty Masterson said she could continue.&nbsp;Holscher challenged the Republican-led majority to show evidence that sexual assaults occur in bathrooms by trans people. She quoted various studies to back up her calculations that Kansans have a .00083% chance of being assaulted by a trans person in a restroom.&nbsp;“You are eight times more likely to get struck by lightning,” Holscher said. “You’re 50 times more likely to die in a car crash, you’re 100 times more likely to be killed by gun violence, and you are 3,500 times more likely to be sexually assaulted by a man.”Sens. Pat Pettey, D-Kansas City, and David Haley, D-Kansas City, both Democrats from Wyandotte County that will host the World Cup, said they are concerned about economic development impacts.&nbsp;“This body continues to debate and pass legislation that places a heavy financial burden on our communities without providing them with additional resources,” Pettey said. “We are hosting the World Cup this summer. We are being put in a global spotlight. The Kansas Legislature should be focused on job creation, strengthening our workforce and attracting and retaining top talent. Where one goes to the bathroom does not grow our economy.”Sen. Kellie Warren, R-Leawood, closed the short debate expressing concerns about children seeing someone of the opposite sex in the bathroom or locker room.&nbsp;“That’s what this bill is about. It’s not about economic impact,” she said.In a statement, Senate President Ty Masterson said the Senate “restored sanity” in overturning Kelly’s veto.&nbsp;“Kansas Democrats are for They/Them,” he said.&nbsp;After the veto was overturned, Rieber expressed his frustration at the danger he believes the bill creates for trans people. He referred to a section of the bill that requires all gender markers on driver’s licenses and birth certificates to match a person’s biological sex at birth.“This bill is gratuitous. This bill is absolutely unnecessary,” he said. “Think about when you take out your driver’s license — at the liquor store, when you’re cashing a check, voting, if a cop pulls you over. You’re outing yourself every time somebody sees your driver’s license. It’s very dangerous for trans people to be outed, and we’re putting them at risk.”